Water samples from Beaver Beach at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park have tested positive for a type of blue-green algae that produces cyanotoxins. Visitors are advised to avoid swimming at Beaver Lake and to keep animals on a leash to prevent them from drinking or swimming in the lake. Elk Lake remains safe for the public. Read More>>

Victoria, BC– The CRD Traffic Safety Commission has launched a new campaign to address the risks associated with drug impaired driving in B.C. Young local videographers and schools will have the opportunity to provide creativity, insight and technical skills into creating compelling videos aimed at raising awareness.

As part of the Commission’s “Don’t Drug and Drive” video contest, the creators of the best 60-second video ads will win their choice of a MacBook, a Surface Pro tablet, or an iPad Pro.

“Young people can provide important insights into societal challenges,” says CRD Traffic Safety Commission Chair Colin Plant, who is also a teacher. “The Commission believes that inviting our region's youth to come up with messages that resonate with their peers is an effective way to reduce the increasing numbers of deaths and injuries resulting from crashes caused by drivers who were high.”

While drunk-driving crashes continue to decrease, police and RCMP throughout the CRD are reporting a steady increase in the number of drivers impaired by drugs, something which they worry will become even more common once marijuana is legalized.

The Commission’s “Don’t Drug and Drive” video contest is open to young people who are residents of the CRD, in two age groups – 18 and under, and 19 to 25. First and second prizes will be awarded in both categories.

Potential entrants will be invited to attend a professional creative briefing by CTV Vancouver Island’s creative team on April 28. Entrants will also be given access to up-to-date police and medical statistics on drugged driving. The winning ads will be broadcast on CTV Vancouver Island, and posted on YouTube and other social media platforms.

For complete contest rules and to enter, please visit www.CRDtrafficSafety.ca. The deadline for entries is May 19, 2017.

The Traffic Safety Commission reviews traffic safety in the capital region and makes recommendations through a committee to the CRD Board to help reduce or eliminate problems. The Commission also plans and carries out traffic safety education programs as provided for in the annual budget and approved by the CRD Board.

The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and all levels of government to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.

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What is the CRD?

The CRD is a local government that delivers 200+ local, regional and sub-regional services for residents of the region, including 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24 member Board of Directors, the CRD is working to serve the public, and build a vibrant, livable and sustainable region.